Wyoming, United States
Travel Guide to Wyoming: Wild Nature and Wild West Heritage
Wyoming is the least populated state in the United States, making it a paradise for lovers of nature, wide-open spaces, and Wild West history. It is home to the world's first national park, Yellowstone, and impressive mountain ranges offering outdoor experiences year-round.
food
Cuisine in Wyoming focuses on high-quality meat and 'Western' dishes. Beef steaks, bison, and elk are common menu items. You can find traditional 'chuck-wagon' restaurants serving cowboy meals alongside a modern and upscale culinary scene in the town of Jackson. Fresh trout from local rivers is also a popular choice.
nature
Nature is the primary reason to visit Wyoming. The state offers immense biodiversity including bears, wolves, bison, and elk. The landscapes range from the jagged peaks of the Teton Range and the geothermal phenomena in Yellowstone to the unique geological formations of Devils Tower.
culture
Wyoming's culture is deeply interwoven with Wild West heritage. Rodeo is a central sport, and events like 'Cheyenne Frontier Days' are an integral part of the local identity. There is also great appreciation for Western art and the heritage of Indigenous peoples (such as the Shoshone and Arapaho tribes) who have lived in the region for thousands of years.
families
Wyoming is an excellent destination for nature-loving families. The national parks offer 'Junior Ranger' programs, wildlife viewing, and easy hiking trails. Dude Ranches allow children to experience horseback riding and ranch life, while interactive museums in Cody and Cheyenne make history accessible and fun.
shopping
Shopping in Wyoming focuses on outdoor gear, cowboy apparel (boots and Stetson hats), and original Western art. Jackson is the hub for high-end art galleries and boutique shops. In Cheyenne and Cody, you can find historic stores selling Native American handicrafts and souvenirs related to Western history.
nightlife
Nightlife in Wyoming tends to be relaxed and centered around historic saloons and local bars. Jackson offers the most vibrant nightlife with live music and famous bars like the 'Million Dollar Cowboy Bar'. In larger cities like Cheyenne and Casper, there are local breweries and neighborhood pubs.
generalIntro
Wyoming, known as the 'Equality State', offers an authentic American experience combining dramatic mountain landscapes, vast plains, and a living cowboy culture. The state is characterized by a sparse population and massive natural areas, allowing visitors to disconnect from the city bustle and connect with a wild environment. Here you will find the Rocky Mountains at their peak, erupting geysers, herds of bison, and historic towns that preserve 19th-century charm.
tripDuration
To cover Yellowstone and Grand Teton, it is recommended to dedicate at least 7-10 days. If you wish to cross the state and also visit Devils Tower and Cheyenne, it is recommended to plan a two-week trip.
transportation
A rental car is essential in Wyoming due to the vast distances and lack of public transportation between cities and parks. Roads are generally well-maintained, but winter requires snow driving skills and roads are sometimes closed. Domestic flights serve airports in Jackson, Casper, and Cheyenne.
weatherBestTime
The best time to visit most parts of the state is between June and September, when the weather is pleasant and all national park roads are open. Winter in Wyoming is harsh and very snowy, but it attracts ski enthusiasts to Jackson Hole. Shoulder seasons (May and October) can be volatile with a chance of snow, but they offer fewer tourist crowds.
recommendedAreas
The most popular area is the northwest of the state, home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and the upscale town of Jackson. The Cody area at the eastern entrance to Yellowstone offers a cowboy experience and Wild West culture. In the southeast lies the capital, Cheyenne, which serves as a historical and transportation hub, and in the center of the state is the Casper area, offering access to rivers and fishing activities.
Places to know
1. Yellowstone National Park
Northwest Wyoming - Nature
The world's first national park is a geological and biological marvel spanning a vast area. Yellowstone sits atop a volcanic 'hotspot', creating the world's largest concentration of geysers and hot springs, including the famous 'Old Faithful' geyser and the colorful 'Grand Prismatic Spring'. Beyond geothermal activity, the park is one of the best places in North America to view wildlife in their natural habitat. Herds of bison often block the roads, and bears, wolves, and elk can be seen in wide valleys like the Lamar Valley. The landscape changes from deep canyons and rushing waterfalls to thick forests and clear lakes. The park offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers explaining the unique ecosystem. A visit to Yellowstone is an experience of primordial nature, where the forces of the earth are seen and felt at every corner. Due to its size, it is recommended to divide your stay between several areas within the park to reduce driving times.
Unique concentration of geothermal phenomena and rare wildlife viewing.
2. Grand Teton National Park
Northwest Wyoming - Nature
Grand Teton National Park offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the United States. The Teton Range rises sharply above the Jackson Hole valley without foothills, creating a dramatic and powerful appearance. The highest peak, Grand Teton, reaches over 4,000 meters. The park is known for its crystalline alpine lakes, such as Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake, which reflect the snow-capped peaks. It is a perfect destination for hiking at all levels, from easy walks around lakes to challenging mountain climbing. The park is rich in wildlife, including moose, bears, and pelicans. The Snake River winds through the park, offering opportunities for calm rafting or fly fishing. Unlike its northern neighbor Yellowstone, Grand Teton feels more compact and accessible, yet no less impressive in its beauty. Scenic roads in the park offer many viewpoints easily accessible by car, making it an ideal destination even for those not interested in long walks.
Jagged mountain peaks, clear lakes, and some of the world's most beautiful hiking trails.
3. Devils Tower National Monument
Northeast Wyoming - Nature
Devils Tower is an impressive basalt monolith rising 386 meters above the surrounding terrain. It was the first National Monument in the United States, declared by Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. The unique geological structure, composed of hexagonal columns of volcanic rock, is visible for miles and stands out against the plains and forests of northeast Wyoming. The site is sacred to many Native American tribes in the region, who call it 'Bear Lodge', and prayer cloths tied to trees around the base are often seen. Visitors can walk the circular 'Tower Trail' that surrounds the base of the tower, offering various viewing angles of the impressive rock and nearby prairie dog colonies. The tower is also a very popular destination for technical rock climbing. The atmosphere at the site is spiritual and mysterious, and it became famous in popular culture as the central location in the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'.
One-of-a-kind geological structure and a site of deep cultural and spiritual importance.
4. Buffalo Bill Center of the West
Cody - Museum
This impressive museum complex in the town of Cody is considered one of the best museums in the United States for understanding the American West. It consists of five museums under one roof: the Buffalo Bill Museum (dedicated to the life of William F. Cody), the Draper Natural History Museum, the Whitney Western Art Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, and the Cody Firearms Museum. Each wing offers an in-depth look at a different aspect of the region—from military and social history to art inspired by the landscapes and the rich heritage of Indigenous peoples. The displays are interactive and include rare historical items, costumes, weapons, and famous artworks. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the historical and cultural context of Wyoming beyond its natural landscapes. The museum also offers educational programs and live raptor demonstrations.
Deep understanding of Wild West history, art, and Indigenous culture.
5. Jackson Hole
Northwest Wyoming - City/Area
Jackson Hole is a mountain-ringed valley, most famous for the town of Jackson and its luxury ski resorts. The town itself maintains a Wild West appearance with wooden sidewalks and a central square adorned with four arches made of elk antlers. Jackson serves as the southern gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, offering a unique blend of rugged cowboy atmosphere with high-end art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and boutique shops. In winter, the area becomes one of the world's leading ski destinations, and in summer, it is a hub for outdoor activities like horseback riding, rafting, and hiking. Near the town is the National Elk Refuge, where thousands of elk gather during the winter months. Despite its popularity and prestige, Jackson manages to maintain a community character and a strong connection to the surrounding nature.
A blend of luxury, outdoor adventure, and authentic Wild West atmosphere.
6. Cheyenne - State Capital
Southeast Wyoming - City
Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, is a city that combines railroad history with a rich cowboy heritage. It was established with the arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad and quickly became an important economic center. Visitors can admire the magnificent State Capitol building, visit the Cheyenne Depot Museum located in a historic station, and see the 'Big Boy', one of the world's largest steam locomotives. The city is particularly famous for the 'Cheyenne Frontier Days' event held every July, which is the world's largest outdoor rodeo and includes music performances, parades, and celebrations. Throughout the year, 'Cheyenne Big Boots'—giant cowboy boot sculptures decorated by local artists—can be seen around the city. Cheyenne offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the tourist areas of the northwest and serves as an excellent stop for travelers arriving from Colorado.
Railroad history, famous rodeo events, and a Western capital city atmosphere.
7. Hot Springs State Park
Thermopolis - Nature/Spa
Hot Springs State Park in the town of Thermopolis is home to the world's largest mineral hot spring. The water emerges from the ground at a constant temperature of about 57 degrees Celsius and flows over colorful travertine rock terraces into the Bighorn River. The park offers a free public State Bath House where visitors can soak in the relaxing mineral waters at a controlled temperature. In addition to soaking, the park includes hiking trails along the river, a suspension bridge offering a beautiful view of the springs, and a state-owned bison herd that grazes on the park grounds. Thermopolis itself is a small, friendly town, and it is also home to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, which offers impressive displays of fossils found in the area. It is an ideal place for rest and refreshment during a long trip across the state.
Soaking in natural hot springs and viewing unique rock terraces.
8. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park - Nature
One of the most spectacular sites within Yellowstone Park is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. The canyon, about 32 kilometers long and up to 300 meters deep, is characterized by rock walls in shades of yellow, orange, and bright red (hence the park's name). At the heart of the canyon are two massive waterfalls: the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls, the latter being the taller of the two at approximately 94 meters. There are many viewpoints along the North and South Rims of the canyon, including the famous 'Artist Point', which offers the most iconic view of the falls. For travelers seeking a more intense experience, 'Uncle Tom's Trail' (when open) descends steep stairs to the base of the falls. The power of the rushing water and the contrast between the rock colors and the green of the surrounding forests create an unforgettable sight.
Dramatic canyon views and powerful waterfalls, some of the most beautiful in North America.
9. Old Faithful
Yellowstone National Park - Nature
Old Faithful is perhaps the most famous geyser in the world, and it earned its name due to the remarkable punctuality of its eruptions. Every 60 to 110 minutes, the geyser shoots a massive jet of boiling water and steam up to 55 meters high. Extensive infrastructure has been built around the geyser, including viewing bleachers, a modern visitor center, and the historic 'Old Faithful Inn'—an impressive wooden structure considered one of the largest log hotels in the world. The entire area, known as the 'Upper Geyser Basin', contains a vast concentration of other geysers and hot springs that can be explored via a network of boardwalks. Walking these paths allows you to see phenomena like the colorful 'Morning Glory Pool' and smaller geysers that erupt at varying frequencies. This is the most visited site in Yellowstone, so it is recommended to arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
Viewing one of the most famous and predictable natural phenomena in the world.
10. Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone National Park - Nature
The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. It is famous for its stunning and vivid colors—a deep blue center surrounded by rings of green, yellow, and bright orange. The colors are created by pigmented bacteria that thrive in the mineral-rich water at different temperatures. The spring is located in the 'Midway Geyser Basin' and can be viewed up close via a boardwalk that passes right by it, though steam often makes it difficult to see the colors in full. The best view of the spring is from the 'Fairy Falls Overlook' trail, which climbs a nearby hill and allows you to see the magnificent structure of the spring from above. The sight of the spring against the white ground and the rising steam is one of the most photographed and impressive sights in Yellowstone.
Amazing natural colors and a geothermal phenomenon on a massive scale.
11. Jenny Lake
Grand Teton National Park - Nature
Jenny Lake is one of the central attractions in Grand Teton National Park. The lake, formed by glaciers, lies right at the foot of the high peaks and offers clear, calm waters. Visitors can hike the trail surrounding the lake or take a small boat across to the western side. From there, a popular hiking trail leads to 'Hidden Falls' and the 'Inspiration Point' lookout, which overlooks the lake and the entire valley. The area is very suitable for picnics, canoeing, or simply sitting on the shore and enjoying the view. Due to its popularity, the parking lot fills up very quickly in the morning. The lake also serves as a starting point for climbers heading into the high canyons of the Teton Range. The combination of blue water, green forests, and gray, snow-capped peaks makes Jenny Lake one of the most beautiful places in the state.
Classic lake and mountain views, accessible hiking trails, and boat trips.
12. National Elk Refuge
Jackson - Nature/Wildlife
Located just north of the town of Jackson, the National Elk Refuge was established in 1912 to protect the region's large elk herd. Every winter, thousands of elk migrate from the high mountains to the valley to find food and shelter from the heavy snow. During the winter months (December to April), visitors can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride that goes right into the herd, an experience that allows for close-up viewing of these impressive animals. In summer, the elk migrate back to the mountains, but the refuge remains a beautiful place for bird watching, bison viewing, and other wildlife, with an open view of the Teton Range in the background. The visitor center shared by the refuge and the National Park offers interesting displays on the wildlife and ecology of the area. It is an excellent place to understand nature conservation efforts in Wyoming and the balance between human settlement and wildlife.
Viewing thousands of elk up close (in winter) and open valley views.
13. Wyoming State Museum
Cheyenne - Museum
The Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne is the best place to learn about the history, nature, and culture of the entire state. The museum offers diverse exhibits including dinosaur fossils found in Wyoming, displays on Indigenous peoples, the history of cowboys and ranchers, and the development of industry and mining in the state. One of the most interesting sections is dedicated to Wyoming's wildlife, with taxidermy and information on various ecosystems. The museum is very family-friendly with interactive areas for children. Admission to the museum is usually free, making it an accessible and recommended attraction for anyone visiting the capital. It is a great place to get broad context on the state before heading out to explore its natural sites.
Comprehensive and free overview of Wyoming's history and nature.
14. Old Trail Town
Cody - History
Old Trail Town is an open-air museum consisting of over 25 historic log buildings collected from across Wyoming and Montana and restored at the original site where the town of Cody was founded in 1895. Visitors can walk on wooden sidewalks between cabins of famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, visit a 19th-century general store, a small schoolhouse, and a saloon. The site also includes the grave of the famous 'Jeremiah Johnson'. The site offers an authentic and direct glimpse into the daily lives of the first settlers, cowboys, and outlaws in the Wild West. The atmosphere at the site is rugged and real, and it is located at a scenic point overlooking the mountains surrounding Cody. It is an excellent complement to a visit to the more modern Buffalo Bill Museum.
A tangible experience of Wild West life through original buildings.
15. Independence Rock
Central Wyoming - History
Independence Rock is a giant granite rock formation that served as a critical landmark for migrants moving west on the Oregon, Mormon, and California trails in the 19th century. The rock earned its name because wagon trains aimed to reach it by July 4th (Independence Day) to ensure they would cross the mountains before the snows arrived. Visitors can see hundreds of names and dates carved into the rock by historical travelers more than 150 years ago. The rock can be climbed relatively easily, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding plains. The site is managed as a State Historic Park and offers walking trails and interpretive signs about the site's importance in the history of westward expansion. It is a moving stop that allows for a direct connection to the people who shaped American history.
Moving historical significance and viewing the 'Register of the Desert'.
16. Lamar Valley
Northeast Yellowstone - Nature/Wildlife
Lamar Valley, often called the 'Serengeti of America', is the best place in Yellowstone for large-scale wildlife viewing. The wide, open valley provides an ideal habitat for massive herds of bison, elk, and predators like wolves and bears. Nature enthusiasts and photographers come here with telescopes and binoculars, especially in the early morning or before sunset, to track the valley's famous wolf packs. The scenery in the valley is pastoral and relaxing, with the Lamar River winding through its center. Unlike the busy geothermal areas of the park, Lamar Valley offers an experience of wide-open spaces and quiet. It is also an excellent area for hiking in the grasslands, though caution must be taken due to the presence of bears. Driving through the valley is an experience in itself, as bison often walk right alongside the cars.
The best wildlife viewing (especially wolves and bison) in Yellowstone.
17. Mammoth Hot Springs
North Yellowstone - Nature
Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique phenomenon in Yellowstone, very different from the geysers in the rest of the park. Here, calcium carbonate-rich hot water rises to the surface and creates spectacular terraces of white and colorful travertine rock. The terraces look like living sculptures that constantly change as the water flows and deposits new minerals. Visitors can walk on a network of boardwalks passing between the Upper and Lower Terraces, including 'Liberty Cap'—a uniquely shaped rock formed from an ancient hot spring. The area also includes the historic Mammoth village, which formerly served as a military base that managed the park before the establishment of the National Park Service. Herds of elk often lounge on the grass in the center of the village, adding to the site's charm. This is the only area of the park accessible by car year-round.
Unique and colorful rock terraces and the history of park management.
18. Yellowstone Lake
Southeast Yellowstone - Nature
Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-altitude body of water (above 2,100 meters) in North America. The lake lies in the heart of the Yellowstone Volcano caldera, and beneath its cold waters lies extensive geothermal activity. Visitors can enjoy boating, trout fishing (with a permit), or simply walking along the indented shores. In the 'West Thumb' area, you can see hot springs and small geysers right on the lakeshore, and some even beneath the water's surface. The historic 'Lake Yellowstone Hotel', with its impressive yellow facade, offers classic-style accommodation with panoramic lake views. The area is quieter and more relaxed than the Old Faithful area, and it is a great place for viewing waterfowl, bald eagles, and occasionally bears wandering on the shore. The water in the lake is very cold year-round, so swimming is not recommended.
Serene lake views, geothermal activity on the waterfront, and boating.
19. Bighorn Scenic Byway
Northern Wyoming - Scenic Drive
Highway 14 crossing the Bighorn Mountains in northern Wyoming is one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the state. The road climbs sharply from the plains to the mountain peaks, passing through deep canyons, thick forests, and alpine meadows. Along the way, you can stop at spectacular viewpoints, waterfalls (like Shell Falls), and historic sites. One of the famous sites in the area is the 'Medicine Wheel', a sacred Native American site consisting of stones arranged in a giant wheel shape on a mountain peak. The road offers many opportunities for viewing wildlife such as elk and mountain goats. The drive is challenging due to curves and grades, but the changing views at every turn make it an unforgettable experience. It is an excellent route for travelers moving between Devils Tower and Yellowstone Park.
Spectacular drive through diverse mountain landscapes and historic sites.
20. Cheyenne Depot Museum
Cheyenne - Museum
Located inside the historic Union Pacific railroad station, built in the late 19th century and considered one of the most beautiful in the US, the museum tells the story of Cheyenne as a railroad town. The station itself is an architectural work of art made of sandstone. Inside the museum, you can find displays on the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, impressive model trains, and information about the technology and people behind the railroads. The square outside the museum is the center of the city's life and hosts events and concerts. For train enthusiasts, this is a pilgrimage site, especially due to the proximity to the active rail yard where long freight trains can often be seen moving. The museum successfully conveys the sense of the 'West' built around steel and steam.
Impressive historic architecture and a fascinating story about the building of America.
21. Snowy Range Mountains
Southern Wyoming - Nature
The Snowy Range in southern Wyoming offers a less crowded but beautiful alternative to the Teton Mountains. Highway 130 crosses the range and reaches heights of over 3,000 meters, offering views of white quartzite peaks that look snowy even in summer. The area is dotted with small, clear alpine lakes, meadows full of wildflowers, and comfortable hiking trails. The highlight is 'Medicine Bow Peak', the highest peak in the area, offering a spectacular view of southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. It is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and picnics in summer, and in winter it becomes a center for skiing and snowmobiling. The proximity to the university town of Laramie makes the area very accessible to travelers in the south of the state.
Spectacular alpine views without the crowds of the large national parks.
22. Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Thermopolis - Museum
Wyoming is one of the world's richest regions for dinosaur fossils, and the center in Thermopolis is one of the leading institutions in the field. The museum displays over 30 complete dinosaur skeletons, including 'Jim'—the only Archaeopteryx displayed outside of Europe, and a giant Supersaurus skeleton. What makes the place unique is the opportunity to take a tour of a nearby active dig site, where you can see fossils still embedded in the rock. The museum also offers 'Dig for a Day' programs for adults and children (by prior arrangement). The displays are well-explained and suitable for all ages, highlighting the fascinating prehistoric past of the region which was once an inland sea and tropical swamps.
One of the most impressive dinosaur collections in the world and dig site tours.
23. Bighorn Canyon
Northern Wyoming / Montana - Nature
This recreation area spans the border between Wyoming and Montana and offers dramatic views of a deep canyon created by the Bighorn River. The canyon walls rise hundreds of meters above the blue waters of the reservoir created by the 'Yellowtail' Dam. The site is ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing. There are several hiking trails along the canyon rim offering breathtaking views, such as 'Devil Canyon Overlook'. The area is also home to Pryor Mountain Wild Horses, which can often be seen wandering the plains above the canyon. This is a relatively lesser-known destination, allowing for a quieter and more secluded experience in powerful nature.
Massive canyon views, water activities, and wild horse viewing.
24. Fort Laramie
Eastern Wyoming - History
Fort Laramie was one of the most important outposts in the American West during the 19th century. It began as a fur trading post and became a major military base that protected migrants on Western trails and served as a site for treaty negotiations with Indigenous tribes. Today, the historic site includes restored and original buildings that can be toured, including officers' quarters, warehouses, and the bakery. Costumed interpreters are sometimes on-site demonstrating daily life at the fort. The visit provides an in-depth look at the complexity of the encounter between different cultures in the West and the role of the US Army during that period. The site lies at the confluence of the Laramie and Platte rivers in a quiet rural area.
A key site in the history of the American West and migrant expansion.
25. National Museum of Wildlife Art
Jackson - Museum
The museum is housed in an impressive stone building that blends into a hillside overlooking the National Elk Refuge near Jackson. It is the world's leading museum dedicated entirely to art depicting wildlife. The collection includes works from antiquity to the present day, with an emphasis on famous American and European artists like Andy Warhol and John James Audubon. Beyond the indoor galleries, there is an outdoor sculpture trail offering impressive artworks against the open landscape of the valley. The museum combines art with nature conservation and offers a refined cultural experience in the heart of the wild. The museum's restaurant is considered one of the best in the area and offers a spectacular view.
A blend of world-class art, unique architecture, and spectacular views.
26. South Pass City Historic Town
Central Wyoming - History
South Pass City is a restored 'ghost town' established during the gold rush of the 1860s. At its peak, it was one of the largest cities in Wyoming, but today it serves as a historic park. Visitors can tour about 30 original buildings, including residences, shops, and a gold mine. The town is also famous for its role in the women's rights movement; here the law was written that made Wyoming the first place in the world to grant women equal voting rights in 1869. The place is secluded and quiet, giving a real sense of time travel to the days of miners and pioneers. The surrounding area also offers beautiful nature hiking trails.
An authentic glimpse into gold rush days and women's rights history.
27. Flaming Gorge Canyon
Southwest Wyoming / Utah - Nature
This recreation area, shared by Wyoming and Utah, is famous for the red-orange walls of the canyon reflecting in the blue waters of the reservoir (hence its name—'Flaming Gorge'). It is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, trout fishing, and camping. The Green River flowing below the dam offers some of the best fishing and rafting in the West. There are many viewpoints along the scenic roads surrounding the reservoir, offering panoramic views of the colorful rock formations. The area is less visited than the parks in the north, allowing for a more relaxed experience in powerful wild nature.
Colorful canyon views, world-class fishing, and water activities.
28. Wyoming Museum of Flight
Greybull - Museum
This unique museum is located in the small town of Greybull and focuses on the history of aerial firefighting. Wyoming, which occasionally suffers from forest fires, was a pioneer in this field. The museum displays a collection of historic aircraft used for firefighting, including bombers converted into fire tankers. Visitors can see the planes up close and learn about the techniques and courage required of firefighting pilots. It is a small, community-run museum managed by volunteers, offering a different and interesting perspective on dealing with the forces of nature in the West.
Unique display of firefighting aircraft and aviation history.
29. Curt Gowdy State Park
Between Cheyenne and Laramie - Nature
This park is a very popular destination for locals and visitors in southern Wyoming, thanks to an extensive network of mountain bike trails considered some of the best in the region. The park includes three reservoirs offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The landscape is characterized by impressive granite rock formations, wooded hills, and hidden valleys. There are hiking trails leading to small waterfalls and views of the Great Plains. The park is excellent for camping and serves as a great stop for families looking for active outdoor activity a short distance from the state's major cities.
High-level mountain biking, water activities, and beautiful rock scenery.
30. Cody Firearms Museum
Cody - Museum
Part of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, this museum holds the most comprehensive collection of American firearms in the world. It presents the history of weapons from the 16th century to the present day, with an emphasis on the role of firearms in shaping the American West. The displays include rare weapons, rifles of famous historical figures, and technical information on the industry's development. The museum recently underwent a major renovation and offers modern and interactive displays that attempt to explain the cultural and historical context of firearms in the US in a balanced way.
The world's largest collection of historic firearms and impressive displays.
31. Norris Geyser Basin
West Yellowstone - Nature
Norris Basin is the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic geothermal area in Yellowstone. Here lies 'Steamboat Geyser', the world's tallest active geyser, which can shoot water to heights of over 90 meters (though its eruptions are unpredictable). The area is divided into two parts: 'Porcelain Basin', characterized by bright colors and a strong sulfur smell, and 'Back Basin', which is more wooded and contains hidden geysers and hot springs. Walking on the boardwalks in Norris Basin feels like visiting another planet, with steam rising everywhere and surreal colors from minerals and bacteria. It is a great place to see how the park is constantly changing.
The hottest and most active geothermal area in Yellowstone.
32. Tower Fall
Northeast Yellowstone - Nature
This impressive waterfall, falling from a height of about 40 meters, got its name from the volcanic rock spires surrounding its head. The fall is located near the 'Roosevelt' area in Yellowstone, an area that maintains an Old West atmosphere. The waterfall can be easily viewed from a viewpoint near the parking lot. The area around the fall is also known for a high presence of black bears, and they can often be seen wandering the nearby hills. The combination of the rushing waterfall, rock spires, and surrounding forests makes this one of the most popular and beautiful stops in the north of the park.
Beautiful waterfall with unique rock formations and a good chance for bear viewing.
33. Town of Dubois
Central-West Wyoming - City/Area
Dubois is an authentic cowboy town situated on the banks of the Wind River, surrounded by the Absaroka and Wind River mountains. It offers a less touristy experience than Jackson and maintains a rustic charm. The town is home to the National Bighorn Sheep Center, dedicated to the mountain sheep living in the area. Dubois serves as an excellent base for horseback riding, fishing, and hiking in wild natural areas. In summer, a weekly rodeo is held in the town, and in winter it is a center for snowmobiling. The landscapes around the town are characterized by spectacular red badlands.
Authentic cowboy atmosphere and access to wild and lesser-known natural areas.
34. Cheyenne Old West Museum
Cheyenne - Museum
Located within Frontier Park in Cheyenne, this museum is dedicated to the history of rodeo and the Wild West. It holds one of the largest collections of historic horse-drawn carriages and wagons. The museum presents the evolution of the 'Cheyenne Frontier Days' event over the years, including costumes, awards, and historic photographs. There are also rotating Western art exhibits. It is an excellent place to understand the culture behind the sport of rodeo and its importance to Wyoming's identity. The museum offers activities for children and provides an in-depth look at pioneer life.
Impressive carriage collection and understanding of rodeo culture.
35. Hell's Half Acre
Central Wyoming - Nature
Despite its intimidating name, this is an impressive natural site consisting of badlands—jagged rock formations, deep canyons, and colorful rock pillars spanning a large area. The site was created by wind and water erosion over millions of years. The location served as a filming site for the sci-fi movie 'Starship Troopers' due to its 'alien' appearance. Today, access into the canyons is limited for safety and conservation reasons, but there is a designated viewpoint alongside the highway that allows you to admire the unique and dramatic landscape of the area.
Surreal and dramatic geological landscape in the heart of the plains.
36. Town of Sheridan
Northern Wyoming - City
Sheridan is considered one of the most charming towns in Wyoming, combining cowboy heritage with a vibrant and well-maintained city center. The town lies at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains and offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Sheridan's historic center is full of unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. A must-visit site in the town is 'King's Saddlery', a world-famous saddle shop that includes an amazing small museum of cowboy gear and leatherwork. Sheridan hosts rodeo and polo events, and serves as an excellent base for mountain trips or visiting historic battle sites between the Army and Indigenous tribes.
A blend of cowboy culture, unique shopping, and mountain views.
37. Phelps Lake
Grand Teton National Park - Nature
Phelps Lake is a beautiful and quieter lake than Jenny Lake, located in the southern part of Grand Teton Park. Access to it is through the 'Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve' center, which offers an experience of deep connection to nature with an emphasis on quiet and conservation. A pleasant hiking trail leads from the center to the lake, where you can enjoy clear water and views of the high canyons. The most famous attraction at the lake is 'Jumping Rock', a giant rock from which brave hikers jump into the cold water. It is a great place for viewing wildlife like bears and moose, away from the crowds of the park center.
Quiet nature experience, clear water, and jumping from the famous rock.
38. Town of Buffalo
Northern Wyoming - City
Buffalo is a historic town situated at the meeting point of the plains and the Bighorn Mountains. It is famous for the historic 'Occidental Hotel', where figures like Buffalo Bill and Butch Cassidy stayed, and which has preserved its original 19th-century appearance. The town serves as a gateway to the Bighorn Mountains and offers a relaxed and authentic atmosphere. The 'Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum' in the town displays an impressive collection of items from local history and the Indian Wars. Buffalo is a great place to stop for a rest, enjoy live music in local bars, and go for walks in the surrounding nature.
Impressive historic hotel and an authentic Western town atmosphere.
39. Beartooth Highway
Northwest Wyoming / Montana - Scenic Drive
The Beartooth Highway (US 212) is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the United States. It connects the town of Red Lodge in Montana to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone in Wyoming. The road climbs to a height of about 3,300 meters and passes through breathtaking alpine landscapes of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and frozen lakes. Due to the high altitude, the road is open only in the summer months (late May to September) and snow can often be seen alongside the road even in July. The drive offers many viewpoints and short hiking trails in the alpine tundra. It is a thrilling driving experience offering views hard to find elsewhere.
One of the world's most spectacular scenic drives with extreme alpine views.
40. Wind River Range
West-Central Wyoming - Nature
The Wind River Range is one of the wildest and most impressive areas in Wyoming, attracting backpackers and mountain climbers from all over the world. The range includes 40 of the 50 highest peaks in Wyoming, including Gannett Peak—the highest in the state. The area is characterized by thousands of alpine lakes, glaciers, and massive granite cliffs. Unlike Yellowstone or Grand Teton, most of the range is accessible only on foot or horseback, which preserves its pristine character. The town of Pinedale serves as the main gateway to the range and offers services for travelers. It is the perfect place for those looking to completely disconnect and experience nature at its peak power.
Wild and pristine nature, world-class backpacking, and massive mountain views.